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School Holiday Deals & Experiences

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Going with the family?

We’re often asked about school holiday travel and with good reason. It’s a great way to get out there and experience the world with your family.

There are a variety of tours, cruises and experiences that cater for those travelling in numbers. Check out some of our favourites below!

Our family travel specialists

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Esther Ru Bay

House of Travel Papamoa

For over 20 years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping people explore the world. From weekend getaways to once-in-a-lifetime journeys, I’ve sent travelers to every corner of the globe—each trip teaching me something new and deepening my passion for travel planning.

What I love most is working with people to craft experiences that go far beyond just itineraries and bookings. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family adventure, a cultural deep dive, or a soul-searching solo trip, I take the time to understand what matters most to you. Together, we create meaningful, memorable journeys that you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.

In the past few years, the travel landscape has changed dramatically. Flight disruptions, evolving health regulations, and new requirements have made things more complicated than ever. But with experience comes adaptability. We've become experts at staying ahead of the curve—navigating changes with confidence, keeping you informed, and ensuring your plans stay on track no matter what.

My goal is simple: to take the stress out of travel so you can focus on the joy of discovery. From the moment we start planning to the moment you return home, I’m here to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.

Travel might be more complex today—but that’s exactly why having someone in your corner makes all the difference. Let’s plan something amazing.

Esther

Kirsty Howlett

House of Travel Palmerston North: Broadway

I love that Travel experiences gives you lasting memories.

I've worked in almost every area of the travel industry over the last 30 years and have a wealth of experience to help plan your next trip!

Kirsty

Alison Jenkins

House of Travel Hamilton East

Having a love of travel, I completed a Bachelor of International Tourism Management in 2013.

After a 6 month stint working at Walt Disney World in Florida I returned to NZ and started my career in the travel industry.

After three years I was feeling the itch to travel again so I decided to embark on my second OE and moved to the UK. Living and working there allowed me to travel Europe extensively and my favourite country to date would be Poland. I returned to NZ in 2020.

Alison

Leonie Paul

House of Travel Merivale

With nearly two decades at House of Travel, I’m always dreaming of the next adventure. The more I explore, the longer my bucket list grows! The thrill of planning a new journey and learning from each experience excites me.

Discussing travel daily is my passion, I love helping clients realize their travel dreams and living vicariously through their experiences.

Getting to know my clients and understanding what matters most to them is something I truly enjoy. This insight allows me to craft itineraries that are as unique and special as the travelers themselves.

There's nothing more satisfying than a client returning with tales of their adventures. I love hearing their stories, as each journey is different—there's no one-size-fits-all approach to travel.

For me, travel offers the opportunity to learn more about the world around us. With every journey, I find new perspectives, cultures, and places to love.

Travel isn’t just about the places we visit—it's about the growth we experience along the way.

Leonie

Family travel blogs

5 epic Hong Kong experiences you’ll never forget

Unmissable Adventures & Insider Secrets for Your Ultimate Hong Kong Escape

Italy: Food, Glorious Food!

If you’re heading to Italy, come hungry. From silky carbonara in Rome to truffle-dusted risotto in the north, these are the bites worth booking your flights around.

Fiji first timers guide

Whether you’re planning your first holiday to Fiji or your tenth, Fiji warms the heart and feeds the soul with a diversity of experiences catering for all tastes and ages.

Top tips for your ultimate Queensland holiday

Queensland is the perfect destination for every type of traveller. Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family getaway, a romantic retreat, or an epic road trip, this stunning state has it all!

Why Vietnam is so hot right now

Vietnam is storm of culture, colour and cuisine and it is one of the fastest growing Asian destinations for Kiwi travellers right now. So why is Vietnam so hot right now?

Quick guide & tips for first-time travellers to Africa

So, if you’re deciding on your next travel destination and haven't made up your mind yet, think about taking a trip to The Mother Continent, especially if it’s your first time.

The best shopping on the Gold Coast

If you check more luggage on the return flight...well, we've been there too!

5 family resorts in the Gold Coast

We don’t use the ‘F-word’ at House of Travel (favourite) but we know what’s popular, and what our customers love, and these five Gold Coast hotels are always top-dog for family holidays.

12 free (or nearly) things to do on the Gold Coast

Aside from hitting the famous beach, these are the very best low-cost gems on the Gold Coast.

Do’s and dont's for Gold Coast theme parks

Here's how to make the most of your time in the Gold Coast's famous theme parks.

Top 9 things to do with the family in the Gold Coast

The ultimate 7-day Sunshine Coast itinerary

Sunshine, sea breezes and serenity. The Sunshine Coast blends golden beaches with lush green hinterland – it’s like summer never ends.

Where to shop, eat and play in Anaheim

With two Disney Theme Parks – Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park – and an energetic entertainment, dining and shopping district, Anaheim is one of the favourite holiday destinations on the West Coast.

9 Reasons to visit Disneyland Resort in California

Disney’s magic is unlike anything else. Here’s what you don’t want to miss!

Top things to see & do in North America

So the USA is on your list? Good stuff. With a country of such diversity, every state feels completely different. And then there's Canada — a Kiwi fave. Here are a few of our favourite things to see and do in both countries.

7 reasons a beach holiday is actually good for you

Ready for the Best. Holiday. Ever! You’re physically and mentally better off after trading your smartphone for a little sand and sun. Here’s the proof.

The top 5 South Pacific beaches

Somewhere tropical…somewhere warm, where the waves crash on the white sand beaches and afternoons are spent lazing in warm waters, cocktail in hand. Here are a few of our favourite beaches.

Top 5 family destinations in the Pacific Islands

The best family destinations offer family-friendly facilities, great kids clubs, babysitting services and spacious family accommodation so that you get a holiday that is as relaxing for you as it is exciting for the kids.

A guide to family holidays in Fiji

Here are our favourite resorts for families—every one offering an unforgettable holiday for travellers of all ages.

Top 10 things to do in Rome

Rome is one of the world’s most captivating cities – where ancient ruins and timeless legends rub shoulders with the chic buzz of modern Europe. It’s a place that wears its history proudly, yet never stops reinventing itself.

Why we love Singapore

Singapore is so much more than just a stopover destination. It is a thrilling kaleidoscope of cultures, flavours and experiences – all in one friendly, easy-to-navigate destination. Whether you’re keen to indulge in mouth-watering dishes each night or zip across town to your next adventure, this city is bursting with everything you need for an unforgettable holiday.

Thailand travel tips: What to know before you go

Ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Thailand? From vibrant cities and serene beaches to rich cultural experiences and adventure-filled excursions, our guide has you covered.